US-Iran Escalation: The US and Iran traded strikes again as Trump said the Iran ceasefire “is over,” while diplomacy was still being pursued behind the scenes; the Strait of Hormuz saw traffic slow to a trickle and shipping disruptions kept energy markets jumpy. Gulf Security & EU Role: The EU plans solidarity with Gulf states at a Brussels high-level meeting, focusing on freedom of navigation and a sustainable regional peace arrangement as attacks broaden. Assassination Threats & NATO Politics: Reports claim Israel warned Washington of a fresh Iranian plot to kill Trump, adding to the political pressure on US strategy as Trump raised the issue at the NATO summit in Ankara. Israel-Palestine Ground Moves: Israel issued orders to confiscate Palestinian land in the West Bank to expand Route 60 for settler access, intensifying concerns about settlement consolidation. Syria Sanctions Shift: Syria is moving toward a sanctions-free era as the US prepares to rescind its terrorism designation, signaling a major diplomatic opening. Energy Shock Fallout: The IEA said Hormuz recovery lifted June oil flows but output remains below pre-war levels, while EU and other governments pushed targeted fuel support and contingency planning. Regional Economy Signals: IMF-linked coverage highlighted how Middle East tensions are weighing on growth forecasts across the region, from Cambodia’s tourism drag to broader market caution.